Adaptogen Elixirs for More Energy and Less Stress

At this point, you've probably heard about the adaptogen supplements hype. But since they're typically in powder form, you might not be too thrilled about adding them to what you eat. Use them in a ~health elixir~ though, and now you're getting somewhere. These three adaptogen drink recipes from Katie Dunlop, the lady boss and trainer behind Love Sweat Fitness, will change the way you hydrate throughout the day.

Dunlop fell down the adaptogen rabbit hole after looking for a way to regulate her hormone levels through her diet. She quickly found out that the herbs and mushrooms have a slew of purported wellness perks, including fighting inflammation, lowering stress, increasing endurance, and improving attention. (See: What Are Adaptogens and Can They Help Power Up Your Workouts?) To get in on the action, try Dunlop's three adaptogen drink recipes below. Each is crafted with the time of day you'd be drinking them in mind.

Morning: Good Morning Glow-Up

Photo: Katie Dunlop

Of Dunlop's go-to drinks, her morning coffee is the most important, she says. (Especially on Mondays, right?) The caffeine makes her less tired, obvi. But she also adds ginseng, an adaptogen with potential energy-boosting effects, along with coconut collagen creamer. "Having those proteins and healthy fats in there is a great way for me to get fuel in my body first thing in the morning without having to have a big heavy meal," says Dunlop.

Afternoon: Anti-Stress Shot

Photo: Katie Dunlop

When your stress levels are high, everything can take a hit—your digestion, your heart, your mental health. To reduce stress when afternoon rolls around, Dunlop relies on ashwagandha, an adaptogen that protects the body against the effects of stress. Since exercise can raise cortisol levels (the stress hormone), this drink is also a good choice for afternoon workout recovery.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1/2 teaspoon ashwagandha powder

1 teaspoon honey

1/4 cup water to dilute (optional)

Night: Power-Down Potion

Photo: Katie Dunlop

Chamomile is a popular bedtime tea choice, since it’s been linked with improved sleep quality and lowered stress. To up the soothing factor, Dunlop adds reishi, an adaptogenic mushroom which is said to lower stress. She also stirs in some pearl powder, which is used in traditional Chinese medicine to improve skin and has recently been linked to powerful antioxidant activity. Lowered stress and antioxidants both protect skin from aging effects, so consider this combo a beauty sleep aid. (Don't like chamomile? Use moon milk to help you fall asleep.)